The Matchmaker Mare

One

"Holly, that isn't good enough! Run it again!" Screamed Jake, my critique coach.

"I'm trying my best here! Mischief and I can only take so much!" I shot back. Jake looked at my tired Arabian, beautiful horse she was, of course, everyone knew that, but when it is time for a break, it's time for a break, there's just no need for an explanation.

"I said run it again! Mischief is fine! She can take one more run!" Jake hollered, urging me on. No, Mischief and I share a connection, like we can feel each other's thoughts and feelings, and right now, she is telling me to stop. I hop off Mischief's back, and take a glance back at my jumping course and start walking Mischief back to the stables. Jake just glared at me, clearly upset at my decision to end practice.

"And where do you think you're going?" He questioned.

"I am going to take a break. Mischief needs it. We both do." I receive a sneeze from Mischief as I stand up to Jake and I chuckle a bit.

"Ugh! Holly, you are never going to be ready for the show! You know, just the one in Canada you've been training for... oh I don't know... forever!"

"Jake, one break never killed anyone. A rider and her horse needs rest and relaxation just as much as training and discipline. Wise words right there, just admit it, I am right." I smirk, he rolls his eyes at me, but then he laughs, as always. No matter how stubborn I may be, he just can't bring himself to stop coaching me. My talent is obvious. Can't you tell?

"You've got 30 minutes alright. Then I want to see you back on that course." I opened my mouth to say the words 'just me?' when Jake continues. "And yes, that calls for Mischief too." I stick my tongue out at him, he knows me too well. Jake's been coaching me and Mischief for, well, I don't know how long, I guess as long as I can remember. And clearly he is good at his job, because I am one of the best jumpers in the world right now, or at least according to the television and magazines I am. Not to mention that I am also the most famous and popular one right now too. I can't keep track of how many people have interviewed me, asked for my autograph, want a picture of me and Mischief plastered to their wall or door, but I can tell you, it is definitely a lot. So I guess that explains another reason why Jake hasn't given up on me yet, popularity. Supposedly I am going to a show in Canada soon. I know, I know, supposedly you say? Well, to be honest, I don't know if I really want to go or not. Don't think for a second I am about to tell Jake this, this has been our dream for a long while and we have been training everyday, but I am starting to think that what was once our dream has turned into just his. Why? Well, one, it is over Christmas, and I really don't want to miss out on Christmas in my beautiful home of Nevada, Christmas is my favorite time of year, and I always spend it with my grandparents. And Jake if he can make it. But he has his own family too. And two, when I started getting into jumping, it was the best feeling ever. The wind on my face, the feeling of making a jump just right, the anticipation of not knowing what's to come but eager to find out, I was in love with it. But now that I have all of this pressure from not only Jake, but from my family, and the entire world! Who are all counting on me to win. It's just not as fun as it used to be anymore.

I refocus my attention to the task at hand and find Mischief's stall and fill her water trough and feed her and then head into the house for some lunch.

"How are you sweetheart?" My grandma asks as I open the front door and walk down the hallway into the kitchen.

"Eh, ok. Jake's been yelling at me non-stop today, he finally gave me and Mischief a break."

"He just really wants you both to succeed. At least he cares, right?" I shrug, I mean sure it is great to know he cares about me, but he cares a little too much, more than I need.